Even people who prefer to do things on their own can stand to benefit from guidance during difficult times. For example, filing for divorce in North Carolina is not exactly a regular activity, and most people are not familiar with the intricate details that go into things like dividing marital assets. Here are some reasons why one might want some outside input.
The family home is often a couple’s largest investment. Whether one spouse plans to buy the other out of his or her share, or the couple intends to sell the home and split the profit, it is important to know exactly how much that property is worth. An appraiser can help determine the value of one’s home, and it is a good idea to work with someone who is familiar with the local area.
Another thing to sort out is whether property is marital or separate. Marital property must be divided whereas separate does not, so the distinction is very important. In general, most assets acquired during a marriage are considered marital property, and those accumulated before saying “I do” are separate. There are exceptions to this, though, such as inheritances and other gifts given specifically to just one spouse. Tracing cash flow to conclude how property should be classified is often necessary but difficult, although a forensic accountant can usually help.
There is nothing wrong with reaching out for help. This is especially true when entering unfamiliar waters, like North Carolina family law. Since finding that guidance can be confusing, it may be helpful to speak with an experienced attorney who understands the divorce process.
